Portugal The Guardians, Ribeira da Janela

The Guardians are striking volcanic sea stacks located just off the coast of Ribeira da Janela on Madeira’s north shore. These towering formations, known as Ilhéus da Ribeira da Janela, rise dramatically from the Atlantic Ocean and are especially captivating at sunrise when the golden light illuminates their rugged surfaces. One of the rocks features a natural window-like opening, which inspired the name “Janela,” meaning “window” in Portuguese.

Fly during golden hour for the best light, use high and top-down angles to capture the sea stacks’ shape, and include the coastline for depth. Check wind conditions and use ND filters for balanced exposure.

Parking spaces are marked on the map.